Hershey, Pennsylvania: A Fun Vacation Destination

Last year, we splurged on our family vacation. My cousin got married in Disney World, and we stayed for a week. That means we can’t do an expensive vacation this year. That’s why we decided to do a staycation – no hotel room needed but still lots of fun activities to do. Luckily, Hershey is only about an hour away from our house. Let’s explore some of the best things to do in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

What to See in Hershey, Pennsylvania

Everyone has heard of Hershey’s Chocolate and Hersheypark, but do you know about all the other fun things to do in Hershey, Pennsylvania? In this series, I’ll tell you about all the best things to do when you’re visiting Hershey. We’ll look at the best places to stay and have fun. As I visit each place, I’ll write a review and link to it below. By the time we’re done, you’ll be completely ready for your vacation to Hershey, PA.

Places to Stay

Even though we’re doing a staycation, I know everyone doesn’t live as close to Hershey as we do. Therefore, I decided to check out some of the best places to stay. There are a ton of hotels in the area, but we’re going to investigate two of the official resorts of Hersheypark.

The Hotel Hershey

The Hotel Hershey is the most expensive option, but it is well worth the money. As soon as you enter the long driveway and lay eyes on the Mediterranean decor, you’ll see just how amazing this hotel is. There are lots of perks included in the price of staying at the Hotel Hershey. They provide free transportation to the park, and you get free tickets to the Hershey Gardens and the Hershey Story Museum. You can also get into Hersheypark an hour before everyone else! The hotel has amazing amenities, such as elegant restaurants, gardens, and a spa.

The Hershey Lodge

The Hershey Lodge is less expensive than the Hotel Hershey, and it is also a great place to stay. It’s even better than the hotel if you have children. You still get free transportation to the park, tickets to the Hershey Gardens and the Hershey Story Museum, and early admission to the park. However, the lodge also has an indoor water park. Your kids will love playing there on a rainy day or after a hot day at the park.

Even though this was supposed to be a staycation, the Hershey Lodge was running a special Kids Stay, Play, and Eat Free deal. We booked a room at an amazing price and received free Hersheypark tickets and kids meals.

Things To Do

Hersheypark

Let’s get the most obvious activity out of the way first. Hersheypark is what draws most visitors to Hershey. The park has rides for all ages. There are roller coasters for the thrill seekers. There are also plenty of options for people who prefer calmer rides. The kiddie rides will keep the little ones happy all day. On a hot, summer day, be sure to visit the Boardwalk and water attractions.

Chocolate World

Did you ever wonder how chocolate is made? You can find out by visiting Chocolate World. The ride is completely free and will take you through the process of creating a delicious Hershey’s Chocolate Bar. You even get a free sample at the end of the ride.

While you’re visiting Chocolate World, you can also make your own chocolate bar, do a chocolate tasting, watch the 4-D Chocolate Mystery, and take a trolley ride around Hershey. Don’t forget to stock up on your favorite sweet treats before you leave!

The Hershey Story

Learn about Milton Hershey and the history of Hershey in this fun, interactive museum. Kids will be engaged with all the hands-on activities. Older children can complete a scavenger hunt as they explore the museum while younger kids can play an “I Spy” game during their visit. For a few extra dollars, you can make chocolate in the Chocolate Lab and do a chocolate taste testing.

The Hershey Gardens

The Hershey Gardens are a perfect place to spend a beautiful, sunny day. Adults will love admiring the beauty of all the different species of plants. The children will love the Butterfly Atrium where they can see between 500 and 600 beautiful butterflies from around the world. There is even a separate Children’s Garden where the little ones will love being misted by Hershey’s Kisses and exploring the interactive exhibits.

The Sweetest Place on Earth

Hershey, PA is known as the sweetest place on Earth. There are Hershey’s Kisses around every corner (and on each lightpost). Come and explore all of these fun, family-friendly activities. No matter which ones you choose to do during your vacation to Hershey, I can promise your trip will be filled with lots of chocolate and great memories!

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What Do You Think?

Have you been to Hershey, Pennsylvania? What was your favorite part?

Let me know in the comments below.

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About Tara

Hi! Welcome to Teach Without Tears! I'm Tara. I love teaching third grade, but I hate the stress that comes with it. Join me to discover ways to destress both in the classroom and at home. Together we'll teach without tears! Find Out More…

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